Iconic Pairings: Chocolate and Orange (2024)

Dark chocolate and orange are a match made in heaven. Here’s the story behind this classic flavour combination.

While somechocolate pairingsare a product of a recent time and place in food innovation,chocolate and orange are a pair that seems to be so naturally matched that its origin is rarely considered. We asked Lindt Maître ChocolatierThomas Schnetzlerto share the story behind this coupling and explain why this duo has such a beloved place in the palates of chocolate connoisseurs.

A brief history

Chocolate and orange is a match of exotic and highly sought after equals from the old world. Orange trees first graced village landscapes in Southern China and North Eastern India. By the 1400s, oranges became a staple on the trade route between China and continental Europe, a celebrated commodity among privileged and wealthy Europeans.

Iconic Pairings: Chocolate and Orange (1)

Chocolate was initially embraced by Spanish Royalty, who sweetened cacao powder with rare sugar andspices, and then mixed it with orange flower water. (Chocolate was consumed as a beverage for hundreds of years before the invention of solid chocolate.) This chocolate orange flower water co*cktail was the first in a long line of citrus and chocolate pairings that now have an iconic place in the world of chocolate.

Lindt creates a new flavour

In 2003, Lindt createdLindt Excellence Orange Intense Dark Chocolate. The true magic of the chocolate and orange combination is in its contrast: the chocolate is rich, intense, fatty and lush, and it’s balanced by the fresh, fruity and zesty tones of the orange, creating an overall experience that is equal parts nostalgic and exhilarating. The citrus plays off the incredibly aromatic quality of the chocolate. Revel in the textural complexity of thefruitpieces integrated into the silky cocoa, andslowly chewa piece to appreciate the contrast of melting chocolate and soft fruit.

Iconic Pairings: Chocolate and Orange (2)

Other ways to enjoy chocolate and orange

Chocolate and orange are also delicious in desserts likecheesecake, or as adecadent sauceover pancakes or French toast. Make or buycandied orange peelsand dip them in smooth, melted dark chocolate for a luxurious snack. You can also try pairing a piece of dark chocolate with a citrus-infusedItalian aperitiflike Aperol. The possibilities are endless.

Iconic Pairings: Chocolate and Orange (2024)

FAQs

Do chocolate and orange go well together? ›

Chocolate and orange bring out the best in each other. The natural sweetness in orange complements the bitterness of chocolate, and the darker the chocolate, the better the flavor. Try out one of these chocolate and orange desserts and indulge in the distinct combination of tastes.

What is the history of chocolate orange combination? ›

A Taste Steeped in History

However, it wasn't until the 20th century that orange chocolate graced British tables with the introduction of the Jaffa Cake - which used tangerine oil - in 1927. One of the most iconic iterations, Terry's Chocolate Orange, was first introduced in the UK in 1932.

Why is chocolate and orange so good? ›

The true magic of the chocolate and orange combination is in its contrast: the chocolate is rich, intense, fatty and lush, and it's balanced by the fresh, fruity and zesty tones of the orange, creating an overall experience that is equal parts nostalgic and exhilarating.

What is the story of the chocolate orange? ›

The famous chocolate orange was first sold in 1932 in York, England. It was initially called the “Dessert Chocolate Orange” and was packaged in a small box just like we know it today. Terry's Chocolate Orange followed on from Terry's Chocolate Apple, invented just six years earlier in 1926.

What is chocolate and orange called? ›

Terry's Chocolate Orange is a subtle combination of delicious chocolate and natural extracts of orange.

Does orange enhance chocolate? ›

Summary: Hot chocolate tastes better in an orange or cream colored cup than in a white or red one, new research has shown. The study adds to recent research demonstrating how our senses perceive food in a different way depending on the characteristics of the container from which we eat and drink.

What was the old name for chocolate orange? ›

Originally dubbed the “Dessert Chocolate Orange,” and packaged neatly in the small box we know it to be in today, Terry's Chocolate Orange was not the first chocolate product the company made. Instead, the O.G. Terry's Chocolate fruit was actually Terry's Chocolate Apple!

What is the slogan for Terry's chocolate orange? ›

Terry's, the famous York-based chocolate company, is known for Terry's Chocolate Orange®. With slogans like 'Smash it to pieces, love it to bits,' 'Tap it and Unwrap it,' and 'Don't tap it… Whack it!,' it gained further fame with the catchphrase 'It's not Terry's, it's mine' from Dawn French's ads.

Why are chocolate oranges only sold at Christmas? ›

While the reason behind this isn't completely clear, some note that Terry's Chocolate Oranges were seen as a luxury for special occasions and holidays back in the day, and the tradition has continued on into modern times.

What color chocolate is the healthiest? ›

Dark chocolate is by far the healthiest form of the treat, containing the least sugar and, because of its cocoa content, higher levels of substances that protect the body's cells. If sugar is your number one concern, Allers recommends looking for higher percentages.

Is chocolate orange a British thing? ›

Terry's Chocolate Orange is a chocolate product created by Terry's in 1932 at Terry's Chocolate Works in York, England. The brand has changed ownership several times, and production was moved to Poland in 2005.

What is a fact about chocolate orange? ›

Terry's Chocolate Orange was first introduced in 1932 by the British confectionery company Terry's. It quickly gained popularity and became an iconic treat enjoyed by people worldwide.

How big did chocolate orange used to be? ›

The sneaky buggers have reduced the weight of Terry's choccy orange from 175g to 157g.

What is a chocolate orange fruit? ›

The name "chocolate orange" is based on the brown color of the peel. The taste is sweeter than normal oranges, with chocolate navel oranges averaging 12 Brix in sugar content. Chocolate navel oranges are also less sour to the taste compared to regular oranges.

Can you eat orange after chocolate? ›

Explanation: Yes, it is perfectly fine to drink orange and pomegranate juice after eating chocolate. Chocolate and juices, like orange and pomegranate, are not known to create any harmful interactions when consumed together.

What pairs well with chocolate? ›

For additional, out-of-the-box flavor combinations, pair dark chocolate with sea salt caramel, ginger, lavender, mint, cardamom, wasabi, chipotle, jalapeño, cinnamon, fennel or black sesame seeds. Milk chocolate pairs well with caramel, honey, coconut, lavender, curry powder and asiago.

What colors go best with chocolate? ›

What color goes with chocolate? Chocolate looks warm and inviting alongside autumnal shades like burnt oranges, deep reds and forest greens. It also pairs nicely with cream. You should avoid using chocolate alongside black, where it might create too much doom and gloom.

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